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All the essentials of Apple's launch: models, prices, and release date
Apple unveiled its next generation of devices at an event that updates its lineup of iPhones, watches, and headphones. The company announced four iPhone models, including the iPhone 17 Air, and confirmed that all models will arrive on September 19. The changes range from materials and dimensions to storage capacities and pricing adjustments. In this article, we review the key points to understand whether it's worth upgrading your device this year.
iPhone 17: models, design, and prices
Apple has added a slimmer model to the family, the iPhone 17 Air, which debuts a titanium chassis and a lighter silhouette. The base model is still advertised as the iPhone 17 with improvements to the display (a higher refresh rate) and camera, with no significant changes to the physical size of the device . Official starting prices start at $799 for the iPhone 17 and $999 for the iPhone 17 Air, while the iPhone 17 Pro raises its starting price to $1,099. The Pro Max retains its premium range and now adds an option with up to 2TB of storage for those who accumulate data like there's no tomorrow.
Apple Watch Series 11 and new health features
In terms of watches, Apple introduced the Series 11 alongside updated versions of its SE and Ultra lines, maintaining the previous pricing structure. The most notable new feature is a machine learning-based feature that assesses the risk of hypertension, designed to provide preventive alerts. These tools require clinical validation, and the company assures that the feature will complement, not replace, medical work.
AirPods Pro: Improved audio and real-time translation
The AirPods Pro 3 offer improved sound quality and active noise cancellation, and add the ability to translate conversations in real time into multiple languages. Apple kept the price at $249, the same as the previous model, and aims to consolidate the use of the headphones as an everyday tool beyond music.
iPhone Storage: How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade and Why It Increased
This year, all models start at 256GB, an improvement over last year, but with price implications for mid-range options. Apple increased the entry-level price range to $100 on some models and charges $200 for certain upgrades that previously cost less, such as going from 256GB to 512GB on some models. On the Pro models, upgrading to 2TB involves a considerable premium, potentially bringing the total price well above previous generations.
Software and availability
iOS 26 will be distributed as a free update starting the Monday following the event, and devices will be available for purchase and shipping starting September 19. Apple touts performance improvements and new features linked to the hardware updates, but users should check compatibility and storage before updating.
Apple justified some of the changes by pointing out that the price adjustment is due to an increase in base storage and the addition of new materials and features. For those comparing cost-benefit, the decision to upgrade will depend on the device's use, the need for more storage, and the value placed on features such as real-time translation or vascular risk detection on the watch. For more analysis and technical comparisons, check out our internal reviews.
